There’s something magical about the smell of pancakes wafting through the kitchen on a lazy Sunday morning. It takes me back to my childhood, where my grandmother would whip up a batch of these fluffy delights, her laughter echoing as we eagerly awaited our turn to drown them in syrup. Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, making it not only easy to follow but also a guaranteed way to bring smiles to the breakfast table. These pancakes are light, airy, and simply delicious. Let’s dive into making this breakfast classic!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate chips

Instructions

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This dry mixture is the foundation of your pancakes, and it’s essential to combine these ingredients well to ensure that your pancakes rise beautifully.

In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The melted butter adds richness, while vanilla provides a warmth that enhances the flavor of the pancakes.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently folding them together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, and we want them to be light and fluffy!

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. If you want to be extra cautious, you can lightly grease the surface with a bit of butter or oil. Once hot, ladle about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. You can even add chocolate chips or blueberries at this stage if you fancy a little twist.

Cook the pancakes until you see bubbles forming on the surface, then flip them over and cook for another minute or two until golden brown. Repeat until all the batter is used up, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

Serve the pancakes warm with your choice of toppings. Maple syrup is a classic, but feel free to get creative with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even yogurt for a refreshing twist. Each bite is a delightful experience that will make your mornings feel special.

As you gather around the table with family or friends, savor the moment and enjoy the simple pleasures that these pancakes bring. Whether it’s a quiet morning alone or a bustling brunch gathering, these pancakes are sure to become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire.